FAQs

See our most frequently asked questions, and get the answers you’re looking for.
Oct 28-29, 2025
8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. PT
VEA Newport Beach

General conference information

How do I register for Horizons?

Visit the official event site and click “Register Today”

What is Horizons?

Horizons is the premiere reality capture industry conference that brings together the executive, operations and technical leaders who are shaping the way we document the physical world using drones, robotics and AI.

When is Horizons?

October 27-29, 2025

Where is Horizons hosted / What is the venue for Horizons?

Horizons will be held at the VEA Newport Beach, A Marriott Resort & Spa, 900 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660 - book a discounted room here.

Is there a cost to attend?

Yes, there is a cost to attend. Pricing gets higher the closer we get to the event.

Are there refunds if I can’t attend?

Unfortunately, there are no refunds after September 30, 2025. Multi-Pack tickets can only be transferred.

Can I bring a guest to Horizons?

All attendees must purchase a ticket. Unfortunately unregistered guests are not allowed to attend any of the onsite or offsite networking events. Exception: VIP guests can bring a PLUS 1 for the AfterDark reception.

Is the event Hybrid?

No, we want to see all attendees live and in person so they don’t miss the chance to experience two days of interactive sessions and fun among their peers.

Who should attend Horizons?

Executives, operations leaders, and technical teams from owners, contractors, and energy firms who are advancing reality capture, robotics, and AI. Past and expected attendees include senior leaders across construction and energy, with case studies from firms deploying aerial + ground capture at enterprise scale.

Agenda and programming

What is the agenda?

The core conference runs October 28–29 at VEA Newport Beach. Sessions typically run roughly 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. PT, with keynotes, breakouts, demos, and the Horizons: After Dark celebration. The detailed schedule is published in the Whova agenda as we get closer to the event.

Is there any pre-conference training?

Yes. The Horizons Accelerator Program is an optional, add‑on half‑day training on Monday, October 27 (12:00–5:00 p.m.) at the venue, with multiple tracks for different roles and experience levels. Please reference the Training tab here.

Will sessions be recorded?

Yes the sessions will be recorded and will be available after the event. 

On-site logistics

What is the event attire?

Business casual is recommended for the conference. For our AfterDark evening event, beach-inspired casual attire is encouraged.

Will meals be provided?

Yes. Registration includes breakfast, lunch, and networking receptions as listed on the agenda (including the After Dark reception).

Will there be Wi‑Fi at the venue?

Yes. Conference spaces at VEA feature AV and Wi‑Fi; network details will be provided on‑site and in the event app.

What if I have dietary restrictions or accessibility needs?

We’re happy to accommodate. Please note any restrictions in your registration or feel free to email [email protected] in advance so we can prepare appropriately.

Will there be Wi‑Fi at the venue?

Yes. Wi‑Fi details will be shared in the app and on‑site signage.

Partners and networking

Are there sponsorship or exhibitor opportunities?

Yes. Download the sponsor prospectus from the event site and email [email protected] to reserve a package or ask questions.

Will there be networking opportunities?

Absolutely—dedicated exhibit hall and lounge time, the Horizons: After Dark celebration, and app‑based networking in Whova. Additional activities and sponsor-led engagements are also planned.

Mobile app and updates

How do I download the event app?

We use Whova. Install Whova from the Apple App Store or Google Play, then sign in with the email you used to register; the event unlocks once published by the team. You can also access Whova on the web.

How do I stay updated on event news?

Registered attendees receive email updates; the Whova app provides real‑time agenda updates and notifications. You can also check dronedeploy.com/horizons for announcements as they’re posted.

Travel and policies

Is there a room block?

Update: the room block is almost sold out. We recommend booking now to reserve a room. Yes, there's a dedicated room block at VEA, where the conference is being held. You can book a room via this link.

What are the closest airports to Horizons?

The closest airport is SNA (John Wayne Airport), about 20 minutes from the venue. The closest major airport is LAX, at least an hour from the venue.

What is included with registration?

Insightful breakout sessions, keynotes and demos, breakfast, lunch, After Dark reception and networking activities are all included at this event.

Is there parking available?

Yes, Vea offers valet for $25/day, overnight is $40/night

What are the COVID protocols?

The health and safety of attendees and sponsors is important to the DroneDeploy Team.

Below are our current health & safety standards. As we draw closer to the event, these standards will be re-evaluated and updated based on current COVID-19 conditions. We will provide additional information to attendees prior to the event.

We ask that attendees not attend the event if he/she/they:

Tested positive for COVID within 10 days of the eventHave been exposed to COVID within 5 days of the event Or are showing symptoms of COVID on the day or 3 days prior to the event. Attendees assume all risks, including COVID exposure and any resulting effects, in attending this event, and are expected to follow all official health guidelines. DroneDeploy will not be held liable for any injury, harm or loss incurred.

What is the weather like in Newport Beach in late October?

Expect mild, pleasant conditions: average highs around 73–76°F (23–24°C) and average lows around 57–63°F (14–17°C), with a low chance of rain that increases slightly toward the end of the month. Pack a light layer for evenings and outdoor events.

Are children or pets allowed?

Horizons activities are for registered attendees only; unregistered guests aren’t permitted at on‑site or off‑site networking events.VIP tickets include a single plus‑one for the After Dark reception only. For special circumstances, please reach out to [email protected]. Note: the venue does not permit pets in guestrooms; service animals are welcome per ADA guidelines.

Contact

Who do I contact with additional questions?

Email [email protected] and our team will get back to you